Mobilizations > Stretching?
- jase porter
- Sep 22, 2024
- 3 min read
Let's talk about mobilizations and how they can help combat the discomfort caused by prolonged sitting in our modern lifestyles. The main question is, how can we counteract these effects?
Introducing mobilizations - they're similar to stretching but with a difference. While stretching has been a conventional method in fitness, it doesn't address all aspects of maintaining smooth movement.
When you stretch, the focus is mainly on tensing the larger muscles, in a passive manner - you stretch, feel the pull, and that's it.
However, mobilizations offer more. They are dynamic, requiring active engagement of your entire body - muscles, fascia, joints, as well as your nervous system and brain.
During mobilizations, you're not only stretching muscles but also promoting overall movement and coordination within your body. This strategic approach signals your brain that movement is happening smoothly. This active method leads to sustained enhancements in your mobility, aiding in loosening up and refining your movements.
Therefore, when aiming to enhance your mobility, mobilizations play a vital role. It's not just a temporary solution but rather about making enduring changes to facilitate easier daily routines, reduce discomfort, and maintain flexibility and well-being.
The Significance of Regularity
Prior to delving into beginner mobility exercises, it's crucial to emphasize the necessity of making this a daily practice. Not weekly, not every other day, but daily. Why? Because enhancing your mobility is a gradual process. Even performing just one mobilization each day over several months or years will yield more benefits than sporadic intense sessions.
Tissues require time to adapt, hence consistency is crucial. Studies indicate that it may take between 6 months to two years of consistent effort to witness permanent flexibility enhancements.
Rest assured, I am not suggesting spending hours daily on this. The objective isn't to transform you into an extremely flexible individual. Simply allocate a few minutes each day to mobility to sustain your current movement capabilities. It's also an effective method to manage any arising discomfort and ensure smooth movement as you age.
Even if you only dedicate a couple of minutes to a single mobilization daily, you'll notice a significant improvement in your overall well-being. Your body will indicate which areas need attention each day, allowing you to focus on those specific spots.
Experiencing shoulder discomfort today? Mobilize that shoulder. If it's still sore tomorrow, continue the practice. Progress will be visible over time, enabling you to address other areas in need of attention.
Remember, even a small daily effort can lead to significant outcomes. Naturally, the more effort you invest, the greater the rewards. Try this routine from The Ready State for two weeks and see the difference
Timing Your Mobilizations
So, when is the best time to mobilize? Essentially, whenever possible. I prefer to keep it simple, integrating mobilizations while watching TV in the evening for around 20-30 minutes. Some individuals opt for post-workout mobilizations as part of their cool-down routine. You have the flexibility to customize your approach - whether incorporating it into your morning ritual or using it as a relaxation method after work.
Choose a schedule that suits your preferences.
Additionally, there are various benefits to mobilizations. Techniques like self-massage using a foam roller or lacrosse ball can aid in relaxation and stress reduction. It's not necessary to perform all mobilizations in one go; you can distribute them throughout the day - a bit in the morning, more after a workout, and an extended session before bedtime to unwind. The key is to mobilize daily, at least once. Establish a routine that aligns with your lifestyle.
Enhance Your Movement with Ascent Coaching!
We all deserve the freedom to move effortlessly, yet due to sedentary habits and modern conveniences, our mobility may suffer. Hence, it's essential to engage in daily mobility practices. You don't need to dedicate hours to stretching; simply grasp the fundamentals of mobilizing your tissues to alleviate discomfort and enhance flexibility.
Devote a few minutes each day to mobilizations to maintain your body in optimal condition. If you seek personalized guidance to elevate your mobility, click below to arrange a session with me. Let's collaborate to enhance your movement capabilities!
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